JOE HART will retire from playing at the end of the season.
The 36-year-old, 75 times-capped England keeper has decided to call time on his extraordinary career at the completion of the current campaign with Celtic chasing a league and Cup double.
Manager Brendan Rodgers said: “Joe has enjoyed a phenomenal career and I know will be huge miss to the game when he finally retires from playing football in the summer.
“For all he has done in football, Joe deserves huge praise and congratulations. He has been such a brilliant asset to Celtic, of course, and the wider game at the highest levels, domestically and internationally.
THAT’S MY BHOY…Brendan Rodgers hails Joe Hart after the recent 2-1 win over Hibs at Easter Road.
“But more than that, he is a tremendous man, just brilliant to work with, someone who I know has been a great team-mate to so many throughout his career and a player who never gives anything but his absolute best.
“Each and every day his work ethic is an example to all in football.”
“I totally understand and respect Joe’s reasons for making this announcement and for being clear to the club and our fans on his future.
“I also know he will continue to work right through this season with the same intensity, commitment and drive which he has always been known for.”
HAIL, HAIL…Joe Hart celebrates another Celtic triumph.
Hart answered an SOS from Ange Postecoglou in August 2021 as the incoming Hoops gaffer searched for a new keeper after failing to be impressed by Vasilis Barkas and Scott Bain after only three games into his managerial career at Parkhead.
The former Manchester City No.1 was targeted and a £1million fee was agreed with Spurs as the veteran netminder penned a three-year contract with the club.
Hart has been the first-choice shotstopper since making his debut in a European tie against FK Jablonec – a 4-2 win in Slovakia – and lifted a Premiership and League Cup medal in his debut term.
The agile last line of defence went one better last season when Celtic swept the boards with a world record eighth domestic treble.
Hart will want to sign off in style and the last game of the campaign is scheduled on the iconic date of May 25 for the Scottish Cup Final at Hampden.
